Rhiannon Hendricks
Kabobs, also known as kebabs, are a fun and engaging food option for a wedding reception. They are versatile, easy to prepare, and cook quickly, making them a popular choice for gatherings. Whether you're serving meat, vegetables, or fruit kabobs, there are a variety of sides that can complement your dish. From salads like Mediterranean chickpea, arugula, and Greek, to dips like hummus and tzatziki, and carb-based sides such as rice pilaf and fries, there are many options to choose from. Bread is also a great addition, providing a way to soak up the juices from the kabobs and making every bite more delicious.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of food | Meat, vegetables, and fruits |
| Variety | Shish kabobs, souvlaki, steak, chicken, shrimp, lamb, ground beef, salmon, swordfish, etc. |
| Sides | Salads, rice, bread, potatoes, corn, asparagus, green beans, etc. |
| Utensils | Knives, forks, skewers, plates, bowls, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Kabob side dishes: salads, roasted vegetables, fries, and bread
Kabobs are a great choice for a wedding reception as they are generally beloved by all and can be served in a variety of ways. When it comes to side dishes to accompany kabobs, there are several options to choose from, including salads, roasted vegetables, fries, and bread.
Salads are a refreshing option to pair with kabobs. A basic salad can be upgraded to make it more kebab-friendly by adding ingredients like red wine vinegar, crisp cucumbers, and pita bread for added crunch and heartiness. Another option is a potato salad, which can be enhanced with fish sauce, fresh ginger, zesty lime, and chile-garlic sauce for an extra kick. A unique twist on potato salad can be created by incorporating fresh herbs, whole-grain mustard, and Greek yogurt-based tzatziki sauce, which pairs well with zucchini, shredded cabbage, and pumpkin seeds.
For a more substantial side dish, roasted vegetables are a delicious option. Thinly sliced Brussels sprouts roasted with pecans, bitter radicchio, and dried cranberries create a flavourful dish. Adding a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing and aged provolone shavings takes this side to the next level. Another option is an elevated coleslaw, featuring fresh ginger, cabbage, bell pepper, onion, carrots, and snap peas for a crispy, crunchy texture.
Fries are a classic side dish that can be paired with kabobs. While traditional potato fries are always an option, sweet potato fries or plantain fries could be a fun twist to elevate the typical fry side dish.
Bread is a versatile side dish that can be served in a variety of ways alongside kabobs. Pita bread can be used as a wrap for the kabobs, providing a handy vessel for eating. Flatbreads, naan bread, or even breadsticks can also be offered as a side, providing a vehicle for dipping into sauces or soaking up juices from the kabobs.
These are just a few ideas for side dishes to accompany kabobs at a wedding reception. The key is to offer a variety of options that will complement the flavours of the kabobs while also providing a balance of refreshing and hearty dishes.
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Choosing the right meat: steak, chicken, shrimp, or lamb
Kabobs are a versatile dish, and you can choose from a variety of meats to suit different tastes and budgets. Here is a guide to help you choose the right meat for your wedding reception.
Steak:
Steak is a classic choice for kabobs and offers a robust, meaty flavour. Look for cuts with some marbling, as the fat will melt during grilling, adding flavour and keeping the meat moist. Sirloin tips, chuck roasts, and chuck steaks are tasty yet economical choices. For a luxurious option, try non-marinated filet mignon, ribeye, tenderloin, or porterhouse steaks. If you want to keep your kabobs traditional, opt for grass-fed and grass-finished beef.
Chicken:
Chicken is a popular choice for kabobs and is commonly used in various regional varieties, including Middle Eastern shish kebabs and Indian tandoori kebabs. Chicken is a versatile meat that can be paired with a variety of marinades and spices. For kabobs, it is best to use darker and fattier cuts, such as chicken thigh, as leaner cuts may dry out during cooking.
Shrimp:
Shrimp kabobs offer a delicate sweetness and juicy bite. They pair well with steak in a classic surf and turf combination. When choosing shrimp, opt for larger sizes, with around 21-25 shrimp per pound, for the best texture and taste.
Lamb:
Lamb is a traditional choice for Middle Eastern shish kebabs and Indian seekh kebabs. It can range from cheap and tough to expensive and tender cuts. As a middle ground, try the shank end of the leg, which offers a rich flavour with some extra sinew and fat removal. Lamb is also commonly used in ground or minced form for Indian and Egyptian kebabs.
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Preparing the skewers: metal or wooden
If you're planning to serve kebabs at a wedding reception, one of the first things to consider is what type of skewers to use. You can choose between metal and wooden skewers, each with its own set of advantages and requirements.
Metal skewers are a durable and reusable option. They are ideal if you want to prepare the kebabs ahead of time and let the meat absorb the seasoning, as they can be threaded with the chosen ingredients and stored in the fridge without any additional preparation. Metal skewers also eliminate the risk of burning on the grill, making them a convenient choice for grilling large batches of kebabs.
On the other hand, wooden skewers offer a more rustic and natural look. They are typically made from bamboo and are lightweight, making them easy to handle. However, wooden skewers require some extra preparation to prevent them from burning on the grill. It is recommended to soak wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before placing them on the grill. This step ensures that the skewers don't burn and helps to add a bit of moisture to the grilling process.
When it comes to threading the ingredients onto the skewers, both metal and wooden skewers can be used interchangeably with meat, vegetables, and fruit. You can get creative with your combinations, exploring options like steak, chicken, shrimp, or even vegetarian options like squash, zucchini, tomatoes, and onions. The versatility of ingredients is one of the main advantages of serving kebabs, allowing you to cater to different dietary preferences and create a colourful and appetising display.
It's worth noting that some guests may prefer to use utensils to eat the kebabs, especially when it comes to removing the middle item from the skewer. Providing utensils ensures that your guests can comfortably enjoy their meal, and it adds a touch of practicality to the dining experience.
In conclusion, both metal and wooden skewers can be effectively used for preparing kebabs, depending on your preference for reusability and convenience. Wooden skewers add a rustic charm but require prior soaking, while metal skewers offer durability and eliminate the risk of burning. Ultimately, the choice of skewer material will depend on the specific needs and aesthetics of your wedding reception.
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Tableware: plates, cutlery, and napkins
When serving kabobs at a wedding reception, it is important to consider the tableware that will be provided to guests. Here are some suggestions for plates, cutlery, and napkins:
Plates:
It is recommended to provide guests with sturdy and durable plates that can withstand the weight and heat of the kabobs. Disposal paper plates or recyclable paper plates with compartments can be provided to make eating kabobs convenient for guests. If you prefer a more elegant presentation, consider using disposable bamboo or palm leaf plates, which are not only sturdy and eco-friendly but also add a natural and rustic touch to the table setting.
Cutlery:
Ensure that guests have access to utensils, as some may prefer to use a knife and fork to eat the kabobs. Provide good-quality disposable cutlery, including forks, knives, and spoons, to make it easy for guests to enjoy their meal. Alternatively, if you wish to provide a more upscale experience, consider renting or purchasing reusable cutlery that complements the overall aesthetic of the wedding reception.
Napkins:
Offer a good selection of napkins or paper towels to guests, as kabobs can be messy to eat. Opt for durable and absorbent napkins made from cloth or linen, which can be disposed of or recycled after use. Consider personalising the napkins with the couple's names or wedding logo to add a unique touch. Alternatively, go for a colour or design that complements the wedding theme.
It is important to ensure that there are enough plates, cutlery sets, and napkins for all guests, with some extras on hand in case of spills or mess. By providing appropriate and attractive tableware, you can enhance the dining experience for your guests and ensure they enjoy the kabobs comfortably.
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Drinks: complementary beverages
When it comes to drinks, it's important to choose beverages that complement the meal without overwhelming it. If you're serving kabobs at your wedding reception, here are some ideas for complementary drinks:
For a summery and refreshing option, offer guests a variety of wine options. While serving Turkish wine can be a great way to enhance the dining experience, the taxes applied to wine in Turkey make it quite expensive. Alternatively, consider importing wines from reputable wineries like Urla, which has been featured on Jancis Robinson's website. Zeren Wilson, a food and wine writer, recommends pairing kebabs with reds that have dark fruit flavours, such as a Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon, an Argentinian Malbec, or an Australian Shiraz. These wines can stand up to the bold flavours and smoky grill notes of the kabobs.
If you want to stick to a more traditional wedding drink, champagne or sparkling wine can be a good option to pair with kabobs. The crispness of the champagne will complement the grilled flavours of the kabobs. It is also a festive drink that can add to the celebratory atmosphere of the wedding reception.
For a non-alcoholic option, provide an assortment of refreshing beverages such as infused waters, iced teas, or fruit juices. These drinks can be both tasty and hydrating, especially if your wedding is taking place during the warmer months.
Additionally, you can offer a signature mocktail or cocktail tailored to the flavours of the kabobs. For instance, a cocktail featuring grilled fruit flavours or a twist on a classic like a smokey old-fashioned could be an innovative way to complement the meal.
Remember to have plenty of water available as well, as kabobs can be savoury and juicy, and your guests will likely appreciate a refreshing drink option.
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Frequently asked questions
Some good sides to serve with kabobs are salads, such as Mediterranean chickpea salad, arugula salad, white bean salad, and Greek salad. You could also serve grilled zucchini with feta and pine nuts, pasta salad, macaroni salad, potato salad, coleslaw, corn, roasted asparagus, or green bean salad. Bread is also a good side, as it helps to soak up the juices from the kabobs.
The type of kabobs you should serve at a wedding reception depends on your preferences. You can mix and match various meats, vegetables, and even fruits. Popular options include steak, chicken, shrimp, lamb, ground beef, salmon, swordfish, and more.
First, allow the kabob meat to absorb the seasoning in the fridge for at least half an hour. Then, thread the meat and any vegetables or fruits onto metal skewers. If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about half an hour first so they don't burn on the grill.
